This isn't the first time in the Gospel of John that Jesus explains that He is the face of the Father's mercy.

In today's reading, we meet some Jews who believe in Him. Jesus advises them, "If you remain in my word, you will truly be my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" (Jn 8:31).

Free? They insist that they, as Abraham's children, are not slaves who need to be set free. Jesus tells them they're mistaken. Yes, they're descended from Abraham. But, if they were Abraham's spiritual children, they'd be doing the works of Abraham. Instead, He calls them slaves to sin (Jn 8:34).

They then proclaim their spiritual kinship saying, "We have one Father, God" (Jn 8:41). Again, Jesus tells these Jews they are wrong. He explains that if they loved God, they would love Jesus — who was sent by the Father — and not be trying to kill Him.

These listeners of Jesus are in denial about their very own identity. No wonder they are divided over the identity of Jesus.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to let go of any attachment to sin so that I may be free to follow You with my whole heart.